May 17, 2012

Key Trends: Look#2-Asymmetry in Fashion

Asymmetry is not new to fashion. As long as I can remember, John Galliano has been using asymmetry in his designs, from his early days at Givenchy to his latest stint at Dior. The late Alexander McQueen also used asymmetry heavily in his haute couture collections. It was his signature style. In haute couture, asymmetry is extravagant, bold and raw.

Asymmetry also has strong roots in European design. In 1995, Josephus Thimister, the head designer for Balenciaga, was playing with lines and creating balance. Thimister created a new look for couture and introduced sleek & modern silhouettes that were individualistic. The dress to the right is from his spring 1995 collection. Asymmetrical designs have evolved. Today, asymmetry is mainstream and it can be worn day to day.

Take the outfit shown to the left; it is designed by Helmut Lang. This outfit is fun, fashionable and easy to incorporate into your wardrobe. Asymmetrical cuts work well for all body types. If you have a boyish figure, this trend is great for your body. You can even can go for plunging necklines and ultra high slits.

Asymmetry is futuristic and minimalistic at the same time. That is what makes it memorable. My favorite collections are from Helmut Lang, Alexander Wang, and Phillip Lim (3.0). Their collections have taken asymmetry to another level and prove that asymmetrical cuts can be worn from work to evening. Phillip Lim’s collection uses pastel colors, silks and simple silhouettes. My favorite pieces are the black jumpsuit, and the pastel pantsuit. Simple designs that are eye catching. I love the back of the pastel pantsuit (see below).

When looking for asymmetry, go for something cutting edge. It is more than just one shoulder tops & dresses. Think zen. It is all about creating a balance and harmony. Play with shapes and cuts. Unlike the Mediterranean look (which I covered last week), asymmetry is not about wearing body hugging clothing. Boxy cuts, angular skirts and sweaters are items to look for. This trend is fun and you need confidence to pull it off. If you want something more classic, purchase pieces in black, grey, white and blue hues. If you are more on the trendy side, try pastels, bright colors or prints with subtle hues. Color blocking is a great way to pull all the pieces together.

Helmut Lang has wide array of blazers that capture this look. From V backs, to angular lapels and boxy cropped cuts. If you are more on the conservative side, I recommend going with something like the blazer shown below to the left. It will allow you to add some couture to your wardrobe. For those of you who want more cutting edge style, try the Helmut Lang blazer to the right.

For accessorizing this look, you can go one of two ways:

1) Take this trend all way— add neon and mesh. You can have so much fun accessorizing this look. Go with pointy toe shoes or wild heels. You need a more structured shoe so don’t limit yourself. The options are endless! The pieces shown below are my favorites from Alexander Wang’s 2012 spring collection.

2) For the understated look—add silver or gold jewelry. You want jewelery that is bold (think clunky and big) yet simple in design. I also like adding clear lucite. That is fun. Clear shoes add a futuristic look. Nude color two piece pumps are good alternatives to clear shoes.

Lastly, keep your hair simple— sleek hairdos or even buns work great for this look. Add some silvery or gold highlighting eye shadow and you are all set to go.

The asymmetry is bold, experimental, free, classy and timeless. Now is the perfect time to try something new!

xoxo Sunny

PS: If you need some cinema inspiration, watch Bladerunner or Metropolis. These two movies are classics and my personal favorites.

I like orange.
I don’t have a lot of it but I do have a lovely new orange top that I am very fond of.
Need a bra with it though and I don’t think I could manage a bra just now.
When my poor, sore broken shoulder is fixed I will happily wear my orange top and be in fashion, for once.
Hooray for me.